Nigerian president Bola Ahmed Tinubu lauds the ‘proud ladies’ for their brilliant performance at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup despite losing to England on penalties on Monday Morning.
The Super Falcons of Nigeria held England on Monday for 120 minutes to goalless in a crunch encounter.
Lauren James, one of the brightest performers of the World Cup so far, initially earned herself a caution for stomping on the back of opponent Michelle Alozie as she rose to her feet following a tough collision between the pair towards the end of regulation time, which was reviewed and sent off.
England progressed on account of its penalty kick prowess, having had to defend gamely during the 30 minutes of extra time a player short due to James’ dismissal. Georgia Stanway missed her team’s first effort, but England successfully converted on its next four, with Chloe Kelly sealing victory and a place in the last eight.
Desire Oparanozie and Alozie both missed, as Nigeria narrowly failed to become the first African team to win a knockout round game at the tournament.
The leader of Nigeria after the match took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his heartfelt congratulations message: “I must commend the effort by our Super Falcons @NGSuper_Falcons at the FIFA Women’s World Cup.”
“Your brilliant performance did not go unnoticed despite the final outcome. You made Nigeria proud on the global stage!”, he added
